KUALA LUMPUR: Yikon Genomics, a global leader in precision genetics, has officially opened its first Malaysian laboratory in Kuala Lumpur, a leap forward for reproductive and preventive healthcare in the Asia Pacific.
The new facility marks a pivotal milestone in Yikon’s regional expansion, highlighting its mission to make advanced genetic testing and preventive healthcare accessible, affordable and transformative for all.
The event commenced with welcome remarks by Yikon Genomics CEO and founder Dr Sijia Lu, who reflected on the company’s journey, from its pioneering work in reproductive genetics to its growing portfolio in preventive medicine, hereditary cancer screening and population health initiatives.
“At Yikon, we believe knowledge is power,” said Dr Lu. “We started with reproductive genetics because life begins at its most delicate stage, the embryo. That challenge pushed us to develop technology capable of detecting even the most minor genetic variations with absolute precision.
“Today, we apply that same innovation to preventive healthcare, helping individuals understand their genetic predispositions and take proactive steps toward lifelong wellness,” he said.
A highlight of the ceremony was the introduction of the new Kuala Lumpur laboratory, which stands as a multifunctional regional hub designed to support scientific excellence, workforce development and clinical collaboration.
Yikon Genomics Malaysia lab manager Dr David Wong said the company’s new Kuala Lumpur laboratory reflects Yikon’s unwavering commitment to advancing reproductive genetics and precision medicine across the region.
“With advanced multi-platform sequencing and a dedicated expert team, this hub empowers partners to build local capabilities and accelerate meaningful scientific and clinical progress throughout the Asia Pacific,” he said.
During the event, guests were also taken on an immersive laboratory tour, where they observed Yikon’s operational workflow from sample processing and sequencing to data analysis and reporting.
The tour showcased the lab’s advanced instrumentation, multi-platform sequencing capabilities, and rigorous quality control systems, offering partners firsthand insight into how Yikon consistently delivers accurate, reliable and clinically actionable genetic results.
The experience further highlighted the laboratory’s role as a transparent and collaborative space for training, demonstration and scientific exchange.
Central to Yikon’s success is its proprietary MALBAC (Multiple Annealing and Loop-Based Amplification Cycles) technology, originally developed at Harvard University and further refined in China.
This platform enables the detection of ultra-small amounts of genetic material, powering applications ranging from embryo testing and endometrial evaluation to hereditary disease screening and oncology diagnostics.
By integrating its MALBAC technology into a comprehensive reproductive genetics ecosystem, Yikon ensures every result is accurate, reliable and tailored to each patient’s unique genetic profile.
This holistic approach empowers families to make informed decisions while advancing the standard of care in fertility and genomics across the region.
Dr Lu emphasised Yikon’s commitment to collaboration and regional development.
“Innovation thrives when we work together,” he said. “Our new Kuala Lumpur laboratory will serve as a regional hub, empowering local laboratories, supporting fertility centres, and advancing preventive healthcare across the Asia Pacific.
“The future of medicine lies in prevention, not just treatment, and this milestone brings us one step closer to building healthier families and stronger communities throughout the region.”
The new laboratory will function as both a service and reference centre for the Asia Pacific, offering comprehensive reproductive and hereditary disease screening and fostering partnerships with hospitals, fertility centres, and research institutions.
By combining cutting-edge science with regional collaboration, Yikon aims to accelerate the adoption of precision medicine and preventive healthcare solutions across the region.
Dr Lu expressed optimism about Malaysia’s growing commitment to genomics and preventive health.
“Healthcare of the future depends on prevention, not just treatment,” he said.
“With our Malaysian lab, we are one step closer to realising that vision, enabling healthier families, stronger communities, and a more sustainable healthcare system for generations to come.”
